SmartBin

Understanding Smart Factory Logistics in Industry 4.0 with Bossard

Optimizing Your Supply Chain Strategy in Industry 4.0

The Fourth Industrial Revolution is transforming traditional factories into smart, interconnected systems by integrating multiple digital technologies into manufacturing processes. This evolution involves cloud computing, real-time analytics, AI, IoT networks, Big Data, automation, and mobile-optimized platforms. These technologies collectively ensure that manufacturers have the resources they need precisely when they need them, reducing working hours and optimizing the workflow.

While the concept may seem overwhelming at first, breaking it down reveals a simple progression. The First Industrial Revolution utilized water and steam power, the Second harnessed electricity for mass production, the Third introduced automation and computers, and now, the Fourth Industrial Revolution relies on real-time digital integration within manufacturing environments.

The Evolution of Inventory Management

Understanding smart factory logistics starts with recognizing the limitations of traditional inventory management. Inventory costs are influenced by stockouts, overstocking, pilferage, damage, financing, and obsolescence. Companies have long struggled to control these costs using outdated, manual tracking methods. Static solutions like Excel spreadsheets cannot capture real-time data or facilitate collaboration across systems within a manufacturing facility.

Even barcode RFID scanners, while an improvement, depend on flawless human operation. A single missed scan can distort data, requiring a more reliable solution.


Learn More About Bossard’s Smart Factory Logistics


Elevate Your Manufacturing Efficiency with Smart Factory Logistics in an Industry 4.0

Environment

Smart Factory Logistics leverages sensors, integrated software, AI, machine learning, and embedded solutions. These technologies connect real-time material usage, production throughput, and machine output to web-enabled systems and mobile devices, enabling data-driven decision-making.

Integrating this data into a company’s operational software—such as MRP, ERP, and CRM systems—enhances decision speed and supply chain efficiency. Bossard’s Smart Factory Logistics solutions exemplify these advancements.

Bossard’s Smart Factory Logistics Solutions

 

SmartBin Cloud : The SmartBin Cloud system features motion-triggered sensors that provide real-time inventory updates with every pick or refill. Coupled with Bossard’s SmartLabel System, it automates replenishment orders when inventory reaches a preset threshold. The system integrates seamlessly with Bossard’s ARIMS network, making replenishment data accessible from anywhere on the shop floor.

  • Eliminates the need for RFID barcode scanning for B and C parts and consumables.
  • Utilizes the latest cloud technology with encrypted security protocols.
  • Offers real-time inventory counts accessible through ARIMS via mobile devices or laptops.

SmartLocker: Designed for high-value items, SmartLocker employs machine-learning technology to automate the reorder process. Real-time inventory data is instantly available through ARIMS, providing immediate notifications once replenishment is initiated.

SmartVendingCloud: This solution features an RFID access-controlled automated vending machine, ideal for high-volume consumables and MRO parts. Like other Bossard solutions, SmartVendingCloud is integrated with ARIMS for easy access to real-time data.

ARIMS: Fully Integrated Supply Chain Solution

ARIMS is the ultimate platform for managing B and C parts and consumables. Its user-friendly interface leverages cloud-based functionality to provide real-time inventory tracking and material usage data. With features like advanced analytics and mobile optimization, ARIMS enhances supply chain efficiency and predictability across your entire manufacturing plant.

Conclusion

Incorporating Smart Factory Logistics into your manufacturing processes is not just a step forward—it’s a leap into the future of Industry 4.0. With real-time data integration, enhanced decision-making, and increased supply chain efficiency, Bossard’s solutions offer a competitive edge in today’s fast-paced industrial landscape.

Take the Next Step

Ready to transform your manufacturing processes with Smart Factory Logistics? Contact Bossard today to learn how our cutting-edge solutions can help you achieve unparalleled efficiency and precision. Visit our website or speak with a representative to get started on your journey to Industry 4.0 excellence.



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June 18, 2024
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3 Smart Ways to Achieve Smarter Manufacturing Profitability

SmartBin

No matter the product being produced, it’s imperative to find ways to streamline production and manufacturing processes. Doing so can lead to improved speed of production, faster speed to market, increased cost savings, improved product quality, as well as higher customer satisfaction and loyalty levels. Simply put, it makes dollars and sense to seek out continuous improvement throughout your manufacturing processes. Let’s take a closer look at three smart ways to achieve smarter manufacturing. 

Make a SMART Analysis of Your Current Workflows

It’s impossible to move from A to B — unless you know where A is. This means all improvements toward achieving smarter manufacturing begins with benchmarking and analyzing your current workflows. Here are general steps you can use to get started:

  1. People. Do you have the right people with the right skills in the right place? More so, have you defined Specific, Measurable, Assignable, Realistic, and Time-Related (SMART) goals? 
  2. Process. How long has it been since you’ve mapped out and evaluated your processes? Where did you identify obstacles and bottlenecks?
  3. Technology and Tools. How well maintained is your equipment? Do you utilize the most relevant tech to meet business-critical applications? And how easy is it for you to modify these processes? 

Implement a Smart Factory Logistics System

In the age of smartphones, smart TVs, smart doorbells, and everything else, now is the perfect time to optimize your warehouse and supply chain with Smart Factory Logistics. Empowered by the Internet of Things, Smart Factory Logistics enables your computers and machines to communicate in real-time. At Bossard, we offer both software and physical systems to automate your C-parts supply chain to help you work smarter. Our Smart Factory Logistics system is comprised of the following core components.

SmartLabel

As the name suggests, SmartLabels are intelligent, connected modular labels that can be affixed to your existing storage units designed to hold stock. Once programmed, a plethora of information can be seamlessly communicated to other components via the SmartLable Cloud:

  • Name
  • ID numbers
  • Delivery date
  • Real-time order status
  • And more

 Each label uses an e-paper display and can last up to five years. In addition, an easy-to-use button on the label triggers ordering.  

SmartBin

The SmartBin is a stand-alone container that features integrated weight sensors. These sensors are responsible for continuously monitoring stock levels through the SmartBin cloud. If inventory drops to the point of reordering, it will automatically send the order through to Bossard. All order items will be consolidated into a single shipment and sent to the point of use or dock. 

SmartLocker

If you have valuable or restricted inventory, the SmartLocker restricts access to those who have the proper RFID card. With the SmartLocker, ordering is also automatic .

Use Smarter Analytics

ARIMS is a cloud-based, digital, interactive platform that links all Bossard Smart Factory Logistics systems together to improve lean management and increase supply chain transparency. It allows you to access the platform via computer or through the mobile app from your personal smartphone or tablet. And once access is gained, you’ll have the ability to perform and manage an array of functions — whether you’re on the factory floor or at your desk.

ARIMS places volumes of data and accessibility at your fingertips. You can analyze your deliveries, orders, locations, and articles in real-time by leveraging easy-to-understand: 

  • Tables,
  • Graphs
  • Reports

In addition, ARIMS allows you to customize system options, submit change requests, view previous and current changes.

Ready to learn more? Contact the assembly technology experts at Bossard. 

 

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June 03, 2022
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Two Customer Success Stories: How Bossard Adds Value

Expert Walk

Success comes in many forms, but when you partner with Bossard for fastening solutions and manufacturing expertise, success comes in all forms. And you don’t have to take our word for it! Simply ask any of our clients for their own success stories. Let’s take a quick look at how clients partnered with Bossard for success. 

Tailor-Made Solutions Drive Excellent Results

Since 1866, Borgers has been associated with engineering premium textile components. Johann Borgers GmbH mainly focuses on delivering custom solutions for commercial vehicles and automobiles. The manufacturer produces coverings and absorbers for trunk loading floors, sidewalls, rear window shelves, as well a host of other essential components. No matter the application, each component depends on reliable fastening solutions. The spectrum of materials employed ranges from:

  • Thermoplastic carriers
  • Duroplastic carriers
  • Polyurethane films
  • Needle felts
  • Genuine leather applications
  • And more

But when introduced to Bossard’s new MM-Welding technology, they immediately recognized the potential for real economic benefits. 

Bossard’s New MM-Welding Technology Is a Perfect Fit

The MM-Welding technology utilizes ultrasonic vibration to push thermoplastic fasteners through the top layer of porous sandwich materials without any preliminary processing or drilling. The friction between the component and fastener surface morphs the surface of the fastener into the connecting material. Due to the hardness of the material, the fastener manages to retain its shape and can be immediately loaded following the connection process. 

Mark Maibom, Industrial Engineer Expert, Johann Borgers GmbH explains, “The MM-Welding® technology appeared to be tailor-made for us since so many of our products are based on the porous PUR sandwich components for which the process was developed.” Because utilizing this innovative solution only takes a second, Bossard’s MM-Welding technology was an instant improvement and led to efficiencies. 

Previous conventional joining methods always required extra work and came with limitations. Specifically, the team at Borgers had to pre-process and post-process the drill hole; or they were required to factor in longer drying times and longer hardening times. With Bossard’s MM-Welding technology, the team projects significant cost savings in the future.  

Garo Poland’s Success Story Is Highlighted by a 33% Reduction in Inventory 

Garo Poland is the biggest manufacture of electric vehicle charging systems in Northern Europe. Specializing in electrical installations and systems, this innovative firm is committed to lean management and innovation. And for several years, Garo has turned to Bossard for our SmartBin logistics systems to help achieve it’s lean manufacturing goals.

Our cutting-edge material management solutions have been instrumental in driving efficiencies in their production process. To help facilitate lean management at Garo, seven locations are equipped with Bossard SmartBin Systems that oversee more than 900 order items. With an average of 22,700 fastening solutions being processed every day, processes must be under control. And Bossard’s interactive supply chain platform —ARIMS— material management is more predictable and leaner. 

ARIMS Is the Best Inventory Management Software

With the goal of a fully efficient operation, the right material must be at the right place every time. And Bossard’s ARIMS platform helps ensure the right C-parts are available when needed. Enhanced by cloud technology associated with the ARIMS platform, the generation and sorting of procurement orders are optimized.

In addition, SmartOrdering with ARIMS provides a myriad of demand forecasts and improved procurement processes for supply chain optimization. Ordering and delivering processes can be consistently optimized by leveraging historical data and artificial intelligence. The automated process helps limit employee workload and leads to time savings.

Supply Chain Optimization Reduces Inventory by 33%

 

One of the key tell-tale signs of success for Garo is that they have been able to reduce inventories by a masterful 33%. This means that less capital is tied up, and they can rededicate resources to driving their core competencies — including innovation potential. 

 

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May 27, 2022
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See Your Real-Time Data with SmartBin Cloud

SmartBin Cloud

In many ways, standardization enabled the industrial revolution to occur and greatly improve lives around the globe. Standardization of parts and manufacturing processes make it possible to manufacture goods in an efficient manner. It also makes it possible to automate the supply chain to ensure you have the optimal number of materials needed to continue industrial processes. Hence, the SmartBin Cloud inventory and supply system streamlines the entire process.

How the SmartBin Cloud System Works

Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the real-time data shared via Wi-fi, Bluetooth, cellular, and other “cloud-based” technologies. As more and more people, organizations, and even computerized equipment go online, the IoT digital transformation grows at an exponential rate and enables real-time data sharing. That data sharing makes it possible for the SmartBin Cloud system to track inventory levels in real-time and send shipments to replenish your supplies before they run out.

The standardized materials used in manufacturing processes include fasteners and other items that are identical in every way. They all have the same shape, size, composition, and weight. This enables a SmartBin Cloud system to constantly weigh a bin after every motion (pick or refill of material) and know exactly how many items are contained within it. When those items reach the point where they need to be replenished, the SmartBin Cloud system has them on the way with Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) technology virtually automating the entire process.

Advantages of the IIoT SmartBin Cloud System

With the SmartBin Cloud system in place, you never have too much or too little of anything. The system always knows exactly how many fasteners and other parts are available and the general rate at which they are used. That means the IIoT system automatically tracks inventory and provides real-time data that helps you to track inventory surplus, potential waste, sudden losses of inventory, and the general way specific items are used.

Real-Time Inventory Management Solutions

Equipment storage systems always suffer from inconsistent delivery systems – until now. With real-time inventory management enabled by IIoT technologies, your operation will never run out of the supplies and materials needed to continue getting work done.

Instead of spending time tracking your inventories, calculating material needs, and ordering them in hopes of obtaining them in time, the SmartBin Cloud system does all of that automatically and with an especially high degree of accuracy. You get the parts and materials that you need before you need them to help ensure your continued productivity.

Interested in SmartBin Cloud and how it could transform your production facility and lower your Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)? Email us at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com to learn more.

 

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